Three boys were recued by Weston-super-Mare RNLI yesterday (Friday) after getting caught out by the incoming tide at Birnbeck Island.

The RNLI was called at 2pm and launched a lifeboat to rescue the boys, who had ventured to the island before being cut off from the mainland by the incoming tide.

The volunteers located the children, and took them aboard the boat before returning to the station at Knightstone.

The RNLI describes the shingle bank, which connects the island to the mainland, as a ‘magnet for many who think it would be fun to walk over to the island’, but they are often cut off by ‘ferocious’ tide.

Liam McDermott, Weston RNLI helmsman, said: “These lads were local and should have known better.

“The tides round here come up more quickly than one can run. We often have to rescue those who are caught out.

“By all means enjoy the sea but always be aware of what the tide is doing. If you think you are in trouble call 999 for the Coastguard.”